Qatari actor Mohammed Al Lingawi honoured posthumously

The late actor’s wife and daughter accepted the special prize at the annual event attended by prominent artistes in the country.

DFI CEO Fatma Al Remaihi paid tribute to the actor “whose immense talent makes us smile, whose creativity has inspired us all, and whose name will forever be associated with kindness, integrity and a lovely spirit that soared anywhere he went.”

A short film reminiscing Al Lingawi’s oeuvre which “impacted not just one generation but several, all of whom watched his work in awe” was screened.

“As is the case in any society, the cultural and artistic community is the backbone that shapes its identity, communicates its civilisation and brings its people.

“It is because of all of you that Qatar is enjoying a prime cultural position in the region and around the world,” said Al Remaihi as she addressed the attendees, including Qatar’s leading artistes, actors and filmmakers.

The event was held in the run-up to the third annual Ajyal Youth Film Festival which takes place from November 29 to December 5 at Katara.

Al Remaihi, also Director of the Festival, stressed that there is more to Ajyal than film screenings, awards and red carpet galas.

“It is a platform for creativity, self-discovery and art appreciation, especially among young people.

“It opens our horizons to discover new ideas that take our youth on fantastic journeys across time and space,” she said.

A montage featuring the highlights of the previous edition of Ajyal as well as what film lovers can expect in the upcoming festival were shown at the event.

This year’s festival will witness 80 films from 36 countries compete in the Mohaq, Hilal and Bader categories in addition to Made in Qatar and special screening sections.

The Artists’ Night featured performance of Qatari singer Soud Jassem who enthralled the audience with classic Middle Eastern songs.